Where Parents Talk: Evidence-based Expert Advice on Raising Kids Today

Lianne Castelino
  • 4.5 (8)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Weekly

The Where Parents Talk podcast empowers parents to navigate the challenges of raising kids, teens, and young adults today with science-backed insights, evidence, and the lived experiences of parenting thought leaders. Every Saturday, host, award-winning journalist and mom, Lianne Castelino, distills parenting hot topics with her guests, including: managing hormonal changes, fostering healthy communication, and promoting emotional, mental, and physical health and well-being of kids. Get proven tips and expert advice on addressing device usage and managing social media to the latest evidence on bullying, consent, and relationships, to help instil discipline, encourage independence, and build resilience in children. Discover trusted advice, delivered with empathy and optimism, to support your parenting journey and help your family thrive.

  1. Late Diagnosis of Autism & ADHD: What Parents Should Know About Neurodivergent Teens

    6d ago

    Late Diagnosis of Autism & ADHD: What Parents Should Know About Neurodivergent Teens

    What happens when autism and ADHD go undiagnosed until adulthood? In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with neurodiversity consultant and entrepreneur Noelle Sinclair about her late diagnosis—and how it transformed her life as a parent, professional, and individual. Sinclair shares eye-opening insights into masking in girls, the hidden signs of neurodivergence in teens, and why many children are misunderstood or overlooked. She also offers practical, compassionate advice for parents raising neurodivergent tweens, teens, and young adults—especially those who may be struggling silently. From building independence and self-advocacy skills to navigating labels, stigma, and mental health challenges, this episode is packed with expert guidance and lived experience. If you're parenting a child with autism, ADHD, or learning differences—or suspect you might be—this conversation will help you better understand, support, and empower your child. Takeaways: Understanding neurodiversity is essential for fostering independence in children, as it empowers them to embrace their unique strengths while navigating societal challenges.Open communication between parents and their neurodivergent children is crucial, allowing for safe discussions about issues like bullying and mental health.Parents should focus on fostering self-advocacy skills in their teens, enabling them to articulate their needs and boundaries in various social contexts.Recognizing the impact of social media on emotional health is vital; it can influence self-esteem and exacerbate feelings of isolation among neurodivergent youth.Encouraging a growth mindset in children helps them see challenges as opportunities for learning, rather than obstacles to their success.A positive diagnosis can provide clarity and support, enabling parents and children to find tailored strategies that promote emotional and physical well-being. Links referenced in this episode: whereparentstalk.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Diverse MindsFortune 500Sun Life FinancialCIBC This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

    33 min
  2. Emerging Adulthood Explained: What Every Parent of a 20-Something Needs to Know | Dr. Jeffrey Jensen Arnett

    May 23

    Emerging Adulthood Explained: What Every Parent of a 20-Something Needs to Know | Dr. Jeffrey Jensen Arnett

    What does it really mean when your adult child isn't "launching" on your timeline? In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino sits down with Dr. Jeffrey Jensen Arnett — developmental psychologist, Clark University senior research scholar, and the man who coined the term "emerging adulthood" — to unpack one of the most misunderstood life stages of our time. Dr. Arnett explains why the years from 18 to 29 are a distinct developmental stage, not extended adolescence or young adulthood, and why parents who understand this are better equipped to support their children without pushing them away. He covers why kids are moving back home, launching later, and taking longer to commit to careers, relationships, and adult milestones — and why that's not necessarily a failure. Topics include: how the knowledge economy, the women's movement, and the sexual revolution reshaped the path to adulthood; how to tell the difference between healthy self-exploration and being truly stuck; how to keep communication open without overstepping; and what emerging adults wish their parents understood but rarely say out loud. Whether your child is 18 or 28, this conversation will reshape how you see — and support — their journey. Takeaways: Emerging adulthood, from ages 18 to 29, is a distinct life stage where exploration prevails over commitment, crucial for personal development.Today's parents often misalign expectations with emerging adults regarding life choices, leading to communication gaps and misunderstandings.The shift from adolescence to adulthood is marked by increased independence, yet many emerging adults still seek guidance without wanting to be controlled.Emotional health during emerging adulthood can fluctuate; parents should strive for open communication to support their children through challenging times.Social media and device usage significantly impact the mental health of emerging adults, creating both opportunities and challenges for connection.Understanding that adulthood is not a fixed age but a process allows parents to better support their children in navigating this complex life stage. Links referenced in this episode: whereparents talk.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Clark UniversityAmerican Psychology AssociationSociety for the Study of Emerging Adulthood This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

    35 min
  3. The Teen Brain & Cannabis: What Parents Needs to Know | Dr. Krista Lisdahl

    May 16

    The Teen Brain & Cannabis: What Parents Needs to Know | Dr. Krista Lisdahl

    Can cannabis use during the teen years slow your child's cognitive development — even before you notice the signs? In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to neuroscientist and cannabis researcher Dr. Krista Lisdahl, Professor of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, who breaks down the findings of the largest long-term study of brain development in U.S. youth ever conducted. Dr. Lisdahl explains what the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study — tracking over 11,000 young people from ages 9 to 19 — reveals about cannabis, THC, and the developing teen brain. She discusses why adolescence is such a critical window for cognitive growth, what "blunted" development actually looks like in your teen's daily life, and how high-potency products like vaping oils and edibles raise the stakes. Parents will learn: what the warning signs of early cannabis use look like at home and school, how to have an honest, effective conversation with your teen about marijuana, when to seek professional help, what the difference between THC and CBD really means for your family, and why delaying cannabis use until at least age 17 matters more than you might think. Practical, science-backed, and reassuringly honest — this is essential listening for any parent of a tween, teen, or young adult. Takeaways: Understanding the effects of hormonal changes on adolescent mental health is crucial for parents.Communication around device usage is essential in fostering independence and discipline in teens.The impact of social media on bullying and consent in relationships cannot be overlooked.Research shows that cannabis use can negatively affect cognitive development in teenagers.Emotional health during adolescence can be affected by peer pressure and the need for acceptance.Maintaining open dialogue about physical health and substance use can empower teens to make informed choices. Links referenced in this episode: whereparentstalk.com Companies mentioned in this episode: University of WisconsinUVMNeuropsychopharmacologyAdolescent Brain Cognitive Development StudyCBDEpidiolex This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health. Links referenced in this episode: • • whereparentstalk.com

    33 min
  4. Executive Functioning at Home: What Parents Need to Know | Dr. Anna Levy-Warren

    May 9

    Executive Functioning at Home: What Parents Need to Know | Dr. Anna Levy-Warren

    Licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Anna Levy-Warren has spent more than two decades helping kids and families navigate executive functioning challenges — but it wasn't until she became a mother of three neurodiverse children that her understanding truly deepened. In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast with host Lianne Castelino, Dr. Levy-Warren unpacks why home is such a difficult environment for kids with EF challenges, what the developmental curve really looks like (the brain isn't fully developed until age 20–25), and the concrete strategies that actually work. She also shares why she believes empathy and collaboration — not control — are the most powerful tools parents have. Dr. Levy-Warren is the founder and CEO of Organizational Tutors, a practice dedicated exclusively to complex neurocognitive and learning profiles. Takeaways: Understanding hormonal changes in tweens and teens can significantly influence their emotional and mental health.Device usage plays a critical role in shaping communication patterns and discipline among adolescents today.Independence in young adults is often challenged by social media's impact on their self-esteem and relationships.Parents should prioritize establishing routines to better support their children's executive functioning skills at home.Bullying, whether online or offline, demands awareness and proactive communication strategies to ensure emotional safety.Consent and relationships are essential discussions that evolve with technology, necessitating open dialogues between parents and children. This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health. Links referenced in this episode: whereparentstalk.com #ExecutiveFunctioning #ADHD #Parenting #NeurodiverseKids #ChildDevelopment #ADHDParenting #WhereParentsTalk #ParentingPodcast #LearningDifferences #FamilyWellness Links referenced in this episode: whereparentstalk.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Organizational Tutors

    30 min
  5. Raising Real-World-Ready Kids: 26 Life Skills Every Kid Needs

    May 2

    Raising Real-World-Ready Kids: 26 Life Skills Every Kid Needs

    Are schools missing the most important lessons kids need to succeed? In this episode of Where Parents Talk, host Lianne Castelino speaks with youth mentor and entrepreneur Rob Heller, founder of the BOOST Program and author of The Missing Course for Today’s Youth. With over 20 years of experience, Rob shares why success is not luck-based—but skill-based—and explains the critical life skills kids and teens aren’t learning in school. From social skills and character development to mental health and managing screen time, this conversation is packed with practical insights for parents. Learn how to raise confident, resilient kids in today’s phone-driven world—and why connection, humility, and struggle are essential for long-term success. Takeaways: Understanding hormonal changes during adolescence is crucial for supporting our children's emotional health.Device usage among teens can significantly impact their social skills and mental health, requiring proactive communication from parents.Discipline in teaching life skills is essential, as it lays the foundation for independence and resilience in the face of bullying.Navigating consent and relationships is a key component of parenting today, especially with the influence of social media on youth interactions.Fostering open communication about emotional and physical health can empower teenagers to make informed decisions regarding their well-being.Encouraging a struggle mindset helps teens recognize the value of overcoming challenges, thus enhancing their character and relationships. This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health. Links referenced in this episode: whereparentstalk.com

    31 min
  6. Teen Mental Health in the Digital Age: Strategies for Parents

    Apr 25

    Teen Mental Health in the Digital Age: Strategies for Parents

    Parenting teens today isn’t just challenging—it’s completely different than it used to be. In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Jerry Weichman to unpack what’s really driving the rise in teen anxiety, stress, and emotional overwhelm—and why so many parents feel unprepared to handle it. Drawing on nearly three decades of experience working with over 6,500 families, Dr. Weichman explains how social media and smartphones have fundamentally reshaped adolescence. Today’s teens aren’t just dealing with peer pressure—they’re navigating a constant stream of comparison, validation, and unrealistic expectations that can deeply impact self-esteem and mental health. At the centre of the conversation is what Dr. Weichman calls “electronic addiction”—the compulsive, dependency-like relationship many young people have with their devices. He breaks down why this is happening, how it affects developing brains, and what parents must do to set effective boundaries without damaging trust. But this isn’t about fear—it’s about action. Dr. Weichman offers clear, practical strategies to help parents shift from reactive to proactive, including how to: Build resilience as the foundation of strong mental healthCommunicate in ways teens will actually respond toModel emotional regulation and stress management at homeNavigate conversations about relationships, boundaries, and consent in the digital ageCreate structure around screen use without constant conflict This episode is both a wake-up call and a roadmap—giving parents the insight, tools, and confidence to support their children through one of the most complex stages of development in a hyper-digital world. Key takeaways: Teen mental health challenges are being amplified by constant digital exposure and social comparisonSocial media and smartphones are designed to drive compulsive use—what experts call “electronic addiction”Many parents feel unequipped, but small shifts in approach can have a big impactResilience—not perfection—is the key to helping kids cope and thriveOpen, honest communication builds trust and reduces conflictParents’ own stress and behavior play a critical role in their child’s wellbeing This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health. Links referenced in this episode: whereparentstalk.com

    34 min
  7. Plastics Decoded: Myths, Facts, and Parenting Insights

    Apr 18

    Plastics Decoded: Myths, Facts, and Parenting Insights

    In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, Lianne Castelino speaks to Chris DeArmitt, PhD, materials scientist, a global advisor on plastics policy and evidence-based research, speaker, author and father. The discussion explore one of today’s most debated environmental and health topics: plastics and microplastics in everyday family life. De Armitt shares a controversial and science-driven perspective on common fears around plastics, microplastics, and environmental impact—challenging widespread beliefs and highlighting what decades of research actually show. He articulates that the narrative of being 'drowned in plastic' is misleading, as plastics represent a minimal fraction of our overall material use. De Armitt ’s insights are particularly relevant for parents who are inundated with conflicting information about the safety of plastic products used in homes, schools, and everyday life. De Armitt ’s key message revolves around the importance of scientific literacy and critical thinking, especially in the face of sensationalized media reports. He argues that many fears surrounding microplastics are exaggerated and that the actual scientific evidence does not support the level of concern that is often portrayed. By presenting well-researched data, he empowers parents to make informed decisions without succumbing to anxiety driven by misinformation. From food safety and children’s exposure to recycling, greenwashing, and environmental decision-making, this conversation unpacks the myths parents are hearing and the science behind them. This episode dives into critical thinking, media influence, and how to evaluate environmental claims with evidence—not fear. Takeaways: Understanding the myths surrounding plastics can help parents navigate the complexities of environmental concerns more effectively.It's crucial for parents to teach their children critical thinking skills to help them discern fact from fiction in today's information overload.The idea that we're drowning in plastic is a myth; plastics constitute less than 1% of all materials we use.Parents should feel reassured that everyday plastic items are FDA approved and have been thoroughly studied for safety.While recycling is beneficial, the most impactful action families can take is to reduce overall consumption of high-impact materials.Instead of worrying about microplastics, parents should focus on more pressing environmental issues like reducing travel and meat consumption. Links referenced in this episode: whereparentstalk.com plasticsresearchcouncil.com chrisdearmitt.com This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health. Companies mentioned in this episode: Plastic Research CouncilFDAEuropean Food Safety Agency

    33 min
  8. When Substance Use Hits Home: A Parent's Guide to Healing and Support

    Apr 11

    When Substance Use Hits Home: A Parent's Guide to Healing and Support

    Substance use and addiction are affecting more families than ever—and many parents feel unprepared, overwhelmed, and alone. In this episode of Where Parents Talk, host Lianne Castelino speaks with certified family recovery specialist Kim Porter, co-founder of Be Part of the Conversation. Drawing from both professional expertise and lived experience as a mother, Kim shares powerful insights into how addiction develops, why it’s often missed, and what parents can do if they suspect something is wrong. From understanding today’s evolving drug landscape—including cannabis, fentanyl, and vaping products—to navigating stigma, setting healthy boundaries, and supporting a child without enabling harmful behaviour, this conversation offers practical guidance and hope. Kim also explains the critical role of open communication, early intervention, and community support in helping families move from fear and isolation to healing and resilience. Key topics include: Early signs of substance use in teens and young adultsWhy addiction is often misunderstood—and missedHow to talk to your child without judgment or panicSetting boundaries while maintaining connectionThe impact of mental health and social media on youthWhere parents can find support and resources Links referenced in this episode: whereparentstalk.comhttps://conversation.zone Companies mentioned in this episode: Be part of the ConversationEthos Treatment This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

    36 min
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4.5
out of 5
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About

The Where Parents Talk podcast empowers parents to navigate the challenges of raising kids, teens, and young adults today with science-backed insights, evidence, and the lived experiences of parenting thought leaders. Every Saturday, host, award-winning journalist and mom, Lianne Castelino, distills parenting hot topics with her guests, including: managing hormonal changes, fostering healthy communication, and promoting emotional, mental, and physical health and well-being of kids. Get proven tips and expert advice on addressing device usage and managing social media to the latest evidence on bullying, consent, and relationships, to help instil discipline, encourage independence, and build resilience in children. Discover trusted advice, delivered with empathy and optimism, to support your parenting journey and help your family thrive.

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